Tourney held to benefit Elders

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The Elders are the heart of the Snuneymuxw community, said Chief John Wesley at the band's annual golf tournament Aug. 29.

It is because they are so vital to the health and strength of the community that the First Nation chose to dedicate its second annual tournament held at Glengarry Golf Course in Qualicum Beach to them.

Wesley said the tournament also gave the chiefs from distant bands a good opportunity to socialize while contributing to a worthy cause.

"It's good for all the chiefs to get together," he said.

The team from Coastland Wood Industries was the eventual winner.

The funds raised will be used primarily to assist Elders to travel to the various functions they attend throughout the year. Although some of these events are purely social, many of them are culturally significant. The Elders are asked to say prayers and give blessings at many official events such as the beginning of the annual Cadillac Van Isle 360 Yacht Race that circumnavigates Vancouver Island. They also attend conferences like the recent Elder's gathering in Port Coquitlam on the Lower Mainland.

The tournament drew about 100 participants from the Native and non-Native communities. Among those present were Chief Barry Seymour from Prince George, Chief Alan Claxton from the Tsawout Nation near Saanich, Chief Doug Kelly from the Sto:lo Nation in Vancouver, and Chief Terry Sampson from Chemainus.

Tournament organizer Keith Wilson, who is the Snuneymuxw economic development advisor, said he was pleased with the turnout and with the 25-degree temperatures under clear blue skies. Wilson said he hoped to raise adequate funds for what he called a very good cause. "The Elders are the core of the community. They are the conscience; they are the history; they are the roots."